USC’s Lincoln Riley Sees Michigan Connection Take Big Shift

The Michigan Wolverines unexpectedly joined the college football head coaching market this week following the termination of Sherrone Moore on Wednesday.

The decision arrives at a critical juncture in the recruiting calendar, positioned after the early signing period but before the transfer portal opens on January 2.

For now, associate head coach Biff Poggi has taken over on an interim basis, guiding the 18th-ranked Wolverines as they prepare for their matchup against No. 13 Texas in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on December 31.

Early reports suggest that the top contenders to replace Moore include Alabama’s Kalen DeBoer, Washington’s Jedd Fisch, and Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham.

Lincoln Riley of USC quickly surfaced in speculation surrounding the Wolverines’ vacancy shortly after Moore’s departure. Sources indicate, however, that he is not viewed as a serious option for the position.

According to On3’s Pete Nakos, it is “unlikely” that Michigan would pursue an interview with Riley.

Even though Riley has yet to guide the Trojans to the College Football Playoff across his initial four years in charge, signs point to progress in restoring the team’s prominence on the national stage. USC currently holds the top-ranked recruiting class for 2026, according to 247Sports.

The Trojans wrapped up their regular season with a 9-3 mark and earned a No. 16 spot in the rankings. They are scheduled to play TCU in the Alamo Bowl on December 30.

Earlier this season, Riley’s name came up in connection with openings at Penn State and Florida. In November, the USC leader expressed clear intentions to remain in Southern California.

“Oh yeah, 100 percent. Like I said before, I’m right where I’m supposed to be,” Riley said. “I think nothing other than what we’re building… I love being here.”

At age 42, Riley holds a 35-17 record over four campaigns with the Trojans. He has not replicated the level of dominance achieved during his time at Oklahoma, where he directed the Sooners to three consecutive College Football Playoff berths.

Riley secured four straight Big 12 championships with Oklahoma between 2017 and 2020, marking his debut as a head coach.